Distraction

[Brian Holland]

I had carved a nice little niche for myself as a bookseller by carting a small selection of titles to the docks a few times a week, to great success! It's true that the vast majority of the sailors I met could not read, but those who could enjoyed a good book to distract them from long, dull voyages. It happened one calm, sunny afternoon as I peddled my wares that a winsome fellow sidled towards me on his way to town, having just disembarked a smart, fast looking ship, typically associated with piracy. I watched the young man closely as he passed, knowing he would probably take offense at the fact that I thought him some kind of pirate. It wasn't until I was struck from behind with a belaying pin and my coin purse yanked free of my belt that I realized the fellow had only been a distraction, allowing a compatriot a chance to get behind me unseen. I guess it's not true what they say; sometimes you CAN judge a book by it's cover!

[Brian Holland]

Thanks bolton! I loved the idea of six sentence stories BECAUSE it's a quick-in and quick-out. You have a very limited time to build up to your twist, so every single word counts! I'm also trying to experiment with "frameline magnetism", where what you DON'T say is as important as what you do say. If you have a chance check out my next post, Beloved, and let me know what you think.

[bolton carley]

you'll get used to it.  you'll find that the easiest way is to write about a single moment or conversation so there's not a big general topic to cover.  but glad you've joined us!

[Brian Holland]

Thanks for the favorable comments everyone. I was afraid everyone would tell me it was awful! It's HARD to write a story in six sentences! lol

[bolton carley]

those decoys always get ya!  i liked the set-up of the bookseller, too.

[Angela]

Great story.  Unless it is happening to me.  Your six sounds like you recovered nicely, though.

[Diana E. Backhouse]

But, more than often, you can't! Neat 6, Brian.